Grand Theft Auto VI is about to deliver one of the most consequential launches in entertainment history, with millions of copies expected to sell within hours of release. Unsurprisingly, few want to miss out on being part of this milestone, not even those in uniform.

For service members eager to dive into the game, the Army appears to be offering a handful of days off to active-duty soldiers who commit to extending their service, allowing them time to explore Rockstar Games’ most ambitious project to date.

Army Offers Leave for Soldiers to Play Grand Theft Auto VI

Earlier this week, a photograph of a purported memorandum began circulating online, allegedly issued by the 9th Engineer Battalion at Fort Stewart, Georgia. The document appears to inform personnel that they may request time off specifically to play the upcoming title.

Dated July 28 and purportedly signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ryan D. Hodgson, the memo states that soldiers who re-enlist between August 1 and November 14 will be eligible to request a four-day pass from duty.

That leave would be valid exclusively from November 20 to 23, 2026, and cannot be combined with other time off for an extended absence and it is clearly timed to align with the game’s official launch window.

The stated purpose of the program is to “to establish a special reenlistment incentive program to promote retention, boost morale, and reward the continued dedication of the Soldiers within the 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion.”

Eligibility appears limited to active-duty enlisted soldiers assigned or attached to that specific battalion, with no indication that the offer extends to other units at the base or across the broader U.S. Army.

That said, certain restrictions apply: the memo notes that soldiers must still submit a formal request through the Army’s personnel system and secure approval from their company commander. Additionally, those under review for administrative issues would not qualify for the benefit.

While the letter’s authenticity cannot be independently verified, Kotaku has reported that the commander’s name, contact details, formatting, and other elements align with official records. Though a hoax remains possible, it seems unlikely.

Grand Theft Auto VI ejército

GTA VI’s Launch Will Be Historic

All signs point to Grand Theft Auto VI arriving on schedule, with no last-minute delays anticipated. Fans can expect more revelations during a special Netflix event slated for late August, which promises to unveil further details about the hugely anticipated project.

Early indicators already suggest that the game is already a success as pre-order revenue alone has reached millions of dollars, according to preliminary data. Strauss Zelnick, head of Take-Two Interactive, recently noted that the $100 USD Ultimate Edition is outselling the $80 standard version, echoing reports that many players are opting for the pricier tier.

As such, it is hardly far-fetched that the U.S. Army might genuinely offer mini-vacations to service members eager to experience Rockstar’s latest blockbuster.

In fact, a California automotive company has already announced it will suspend operations on launch day so employees can take time off, and similar gestures may well gain traction in the coming weeks and months.

GTA VI

What do you think? Would four days of GTA VI be enough incentive to re-enlist? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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